Fold-Out Document Case for Steering-Wheel Desk Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable devices for carrying and preparing written documents, such as briefcases, clipboards, and portable desks, are not adaptable for use in the cramped workspace of vehicles and lack integration to function harmoniously with each other.
Innovation Solution
A portable document transport and desk device that transitions between a briefcase, clipboard, and a desk mountable onto a vehicle steering wheel, featuring pivotally connected rectangular members, an extension member, and locking mechanisms, allowing it to function as a multifunctional device with a pocket area, clip, and adjustable hinges for various orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices (briefcase, clipboard, portable desk) are used to carry and prepare documents, then document management functionality is comprehensive, but device complexity and redundancy increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of a briefcase, clipboard, and portable desk into a single integrated device. The housing structure integrates a storage compartment (briefcase function), a flat surface with clip (clipboard function), and an expandable workspace (portable desk function), eliminating the need for multiple separate devices while maintaining comprehensive document management capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The single device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a protective briefcase for transporting documents, a clipboard for securing and viewing documents, and an expandable portable desk for preparing documents in various settings including vehicles. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing comprehensive functionality through one universal device rather than multiple specialized devices
2Ease of operation
If traditional briefcases and clipboards are used, then portability is maintained, but adaptability to vehicle workspaces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates dynamic, adjustable components including an extendable surface that can be adjusted to different positions and angles, allowing the device to adapt to various workspace configurations. The surface can be extended to create a larger workspace when needed and retracted when portability is prioritized, making the device adaptable to both portable and vehicle workspace scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows changes in its physical parameters such as surface area, height, and angle through adjustable mechanisms. The workspace surface can be adjusted to different positions to accommodate various user needs and vehicle configurations, transforming the device from a fixed-configuration item into an adaptable workspace solution that maintains portability while providing vehicle-specific adaptability
3Productivity
If a portable desk is used to provide a writing surface, then document preparation capability is improved, but device weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments its functionality into collapsible and extendable components. The workspace surface is designed to fold or retract into the housing when not in use, and can be extended only when document preparation is needed. This segmentation allows the device to provide full desk functionality when required while maintaining a compact, lightweight form factor for portability during transport
Data Source
AI summary
A portable document transport and desk device includes a first generally rectangular member having a second generally rectangular member pivotally secured along a bottom end, and an extension member that is pivotally connected along a top end. A pocket is located along the inside facing surface of the first member, and a clip is located along an outside facing surface of the second member. The device transitioning between a briefcase when the first and second members are in the closed position, and a portable desk which can be hung from a steering wheel when the device is in an open position.